NDP 2026 Culture Spotlight: Orang Laut singer Asnida Daud debuts “Aok Diko,” an original song in Orang Laut dialect meaning “yes,” adding a new layer to Singapore’s National Day story and spotlighting the coastal community’s presence and language. Urban Planning & Lifestyle: URA launched a tender for the first Jurong Lake District plot at Town Hall Link, setting up a mixed-use precinct with offices, homes, serviced apartments, retail and childcare—aimed at shaping the next phase of Singapore’s island-side growth. Education Excellence: Hong Kong’s Chief Executive’s Award for Teaching Excellence recognised eight teachers, two budding teachers and one education innovation awardee, praising student-centred methods and digital tools that deepen learning and community-mindedness. Heritage Meets Business: A 168-year-old Hakka clan association opened a new $70m tulou-inspired premises in Geylang, blending museum and cooking spaces with entrepreneurship and professional development to attract younger members. Healthcare & Innovation: Orthocell appointed MediTime as Thailand’s exclusive distributor for Remplir, extending its nerve-repair reach across Asia after Thai regulatory approval. Travel & Experiences: Windstar Cruises launched its 2028/2029 Asia season on Star Seeker, with Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore in a small-ship, culture-first format. Public Service & Enforcement: Hong Kong’s Immigration Department ran territory-wide anti-illegal worker operations, arresting 16 suspected illegal workers and four suspected employers. Food Culture at Sea: MSC World Asia will debut a three-in-one Pan-Asian dining venue with a Singapore-style menu, plus bar and street-food-style bites.